BOVEY Tracey AFC informed 1st XI manager Matt Hayden of their decision to part ways with him on Monday, March 17, club chairman Chris Hunt told the Mid-Devon Advertiser.

This first became public knowledge when Hayden himself took to social media the following day, writing that “this came as a massive shock to him.”

He continued that he was being let go for “A couple of reasons [he] didn’t think were right. I then later found out that apparently, managers had already agreed to come in next season months ago.”

The club refutes this claim, Hunt commenting that “We are aware of the comments and speculation made on Twitter this past week, and I can publicly state that the club have not had any long-term appointment agreement in place as has been rumoured and/or alleged.”

Bovey released a statement on the 24th that spoke highly of Matt, with him responding “Appreciate the opportunity. All the best.”

Their statement read as follows: “We would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Matt for his contribution to the club.

“Matt joined us as 1st Team Assistant Manager ahead of pre-season and, when called upon, stepped up mid-season to take on the additional responsibility as 1st Team Manager.

“His coaching ability and determination have been evident throughout his time with us, and the stability he has helped maintain amongst our 1st Team has been invaluable in ensuring the squad has remained on a solid foundation.

“As we look to build further on those foundations into next season, we evolve. And with evolution comes change.

“Matt was informed of our decision immediately on Monday 17th March, to allow him the time to process that change, and decide his path moving forwards ahead of next season. He was offered some time for reflection, and the opportunity to see out the remainder of this current season with the squad, to which he declined.

“Matt departs with our full support, endorsement and best wishes for the future. He will always be welcome at Bovey, and we have no doubt he will be an asset to whichever club he joins next.”

Hayden took over the role in mid-November following Tony Radford’s decision to step down at the end of October. He spoke highly of his predecessor, who he was “gutted to see go.”

His first game in charge was a 1-1 draw away at Crediton United and there was a marked improvement in both the firm and results with him at the helm. During Hayden’s rein, Bovey won six games, drew three and lost four, making for a very respectable record.

Meanwhile, the Moorlanders enjoyed a 3-1 victory at Honiton Town in their first game in the post-Hayden era.

The departing manager told the MDA this, “I really enjoyed my time at the club and was gutted it had come to a surprising end.”

In his tweet, he added, “I want to say a massive thank you to everyone who welcomed me but also to Leigh, Ben and the players! They’ve all been phenomenal on this short journey and I wish those lads all the best.”

“I’ll be back” were his closing words whilst the club set a strict deadline of March 26 for people to apply due to the “Incredible amount of interest already received regarding the vacancy.”